When I met Fidel, I had absolutely no intention of getting into a serious relationship. I’d just gotten out of a long-term one and was fully committed to spending the next few years single. I wanted to spend time meeting new people, dating casually, and focusing entirely on myself. I wasn’t sure what that would look like, but I did know one thing: I was not getting into another relationship. Fidel and I met on Hinge and made plans to meet at a little coffee shop in Chatsworth called Game N Grounds. Going into the date I felt cool, calm, and collected, maybe even a little too confident because I thought to myself “It’s not like anything will come of this” Then I saw him. Fidel was handsome on his online profile, but seeing him in person, man was he BEAUTIFUL. At first, I played it cool, but as we started talking, my confidence became real nerves, because he wasn’t just beautiful, he was funny, thoughtful, and genuine. Also, he had a smile that could light up the whole world (and still lights up my world every single day). Somewhere between the sips of coffee and ever increasingly shy glances, I realized something unexpected: I actually liked him and I knew I had to see him again. What started as an instant connection quickly turned into something truly unforgettable. Just three weeks after we met, Fidel and I found ourselves attending a wedding together (huge thanks to Ashlee and Carlos Benavides for welcoming me, a total Hinge stranger, into their celebration). That evening felt like something straight out of a movie. We drank cocktails, danced the night away, and smiled so hard our cheeks hurt. At around 2:00 AM that night, I had a realization that was both terrifying and absolutely magical: I was in love with a man I had only just met three weeks ago. From that moment on, I’ve been on the most beautiful journey of my life. Together, we've shared some of the most incredible moments. From week-long camping trips in the Pacific Northwest, running half marathons by the beach and in the mountains, and most recently, an unforgettable adventure to Japan, our journey has been filled with endless laughter, constant smiles, and memories we’ll always hold close to our hearts. Fidel is truly the best thing that’s ever happened to me. He is my heart, my most precious treasure, and my very best friend. I can’t wait to continue building a life with him by creating new memories, embracing every adventure, and growing in our faith together. God knew exactly what He was doing when He brought Fidel into my life, and I will be forever grateful for this sweet gift of love.

Celeste and I met through a dating app called Hinge, at the time I was working in Northridge, CA. I saw her profile and couldn't pass up the opportunity match, one because I found her absolutely gorgeous, and two because she seemed perfect. She looked smiley and fun, she wore a Dodgers hat (instant points), and she mentioned enjoying the outdoors, which I loved. We talked for a few days before agreeing to meet at a little coffee shop called Game n Grounds in Chatsworth. Initially I think I was the more nervous of the two and I still remember arriving first and picking a table for us. I sat and waited and kept looking out the window and at some point Celeste passes by in a dress and some low black heels. I remember thinking to myself that she was somehow even more beautiful in person. It must have been the little hair flick she did as she passed by (still a sucker for it by the way). Celeste came in with her usual energy which, if you've met her you know is very strong! I loved every minute of that little date, including me trying to walk Celeste to her car and her stopping me halfway and saying "ok well bye" with a hug that said, I need to get the heck out of here lol. A few dates later and my roommates at the time, the Benavides, said I could invite Celeste to the reception of their wedding, a move that paved the way for where we are today. Celeste and I danced quite literally until the very end, and that night I told Celeste I was in love with her and wanted to date her exclusively. Crazy quick I know, but it worked out! About 5-6 months later I received an offer to head back home to the Inland Empire and work the sport I love most, at the university I adore and my alma mater CBU. Celeste and I agreed to do the long distance thing, despite both of our fears of how it might work out. Well, two years later and we're planning a wedding. In that time, Celeste and I have shared memories, traveled, grown in our faith, and grown in our love. I feel incredibly blessed to be marrying Celeste and I can't wait for the rest of our lives together!